Sodium Alpha Olefin Sulfonate (AOS)

AOS is a foam-boosting anionic surfactant derived from alpha olefins, used in shampoos and hand soaps. It passes the 3402 surface-active test by creating translucent solutions. Classified in 3402.39.90 as other anionic agents.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡³China3.7%+35.0%38.7%
πŸ‡²πŸ‡½Mexico3.7%+10.0%13.7%
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦Canada3.7%+10.0%13.7%
πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺGermany3.7%+10.0%13.7%
πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅Japan3.7%+10.0%13.7%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

3405.90.00Lower: 35% vs 38.7%

If formulated as cleaning preparation

When mixed into ready-to-use cleaners, moves to 3405; pure surfactants stay in 3402.

3402Same rate: 38.7%

If put up for retail sale

Retail-packaged anionic surfactants classify under 3402.19 regardless of sub-type.

3823.11.00Lower: 21.3% vs 38.7%

If industrial fatty alcohol derivative

Certain refined fatty acid derivatives excluded to 3823 if not surface-active per test.

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Import Tips & Compliance

β€’ Include carbon chain distribution data (C14-C16 typical) in import documentation

β€’ Ensure no soap content exceeds trace levels to avoid 3401 reclassification

β€’ Test for emulsion stability per Chapter note requirements during customs verification

Related Products under HTS 3402.39.90

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Powder

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is an anionic surfactant commonly used in shampoos, toothpastes, and foaming cleansers. It meets the Chapter 34 definition for organic surface-active agents by reducing surface tension in water solutions to below 45 dyne/cm. Classified under 3402.39.90 as a non-soap anionic agent not put up for retail sale.

Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)

LABSA is a primary anionic surfactant used in liquid laundry detergents and industrial cleaners. It qualifies as an organic surface-active agent under heading 3402 by forming stable emulsions and reducing water surface tension. Falls under 3402.39.90 as 'other' anionic agents.

Ammonium Laureth Sulfate

A mild anionic surfactant used in baby shampoos and bubble baths, providing rich lather. Meets 3402 criteria through low surface tension and stable emulsions. 3402.39.90 covers this ethoxylated 'other' anionic agent.

Sodium Xylene Sulfonate

Hydrotrope anionic surfactant that enhances solubility in liquid detergents. Qualifies under 3402 for surface tension reduction despite primary hydrotrope function. 3402.39.90 for other anionics.

Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA)

Acid form of LAS surfactant widely used in household and industrial cleaners. Anionic active agent per Chapter definition. 3402.39.90 classification for bulk industrial shipments.

Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate

Anionic surfactant from C14-C16 olefins, offering excellent foaming in hard water. Meets precise 3402 test criteria for surface activity. Other anionic under 3402.39.90.